It’s Annual Fix a Leak Week

March 18-24 is annual Fix a Leak Week, and the EPA is encouraging Americans to replace leaky plumbing fixtures and sprinkler systems as a way to help households save more than 10,000 gallons of wasted water per year. According to the EPA, one in 10 homes has some sort of water leak that results in 90 wasted gallons of water each day.

Mar 18, 2013

As part of the EPA’s WaterSense program, residents across the nation are asked to fix a leak in their homes, which could save 10,000 gallons of water and up to 10 percent saving on their utility bills each year. It only takes 10 minutes for businesses and homeowners to check winter water bills and fixtures for water waste, replace broken or inefficient fixtures, or twist and tighten pipe and hose connections to take advantage of water savings.

“Easy-to-fix household leaks waste more than 1 trillion gallons of water annually nationwide, which is equal to the amount of water used by more than 11 million homes,” said EPA Acting Administrator for the Office of Water Nancy Stoner. “We’re not just wasting water; families also lose money from leaks with higher utility bills. That’s why Fix a Leak Week is so important, and why we encourage everyone to take a few simple steps that add up to make a significant positive impact.”

Here are a few tips for checking your home or business for any water leaks:

Inspect outdoor hoses for any damage and tighten the connection at the water valve.

Check your toilet for leaks by adding food coloring to the tank. After 10 minutes, if color shows up in the bowl, the flapper may need replaced.

Call to have your in-ground sprinkler system checked out by a professional. Inspections may be free in your area.